June 12, 2013. Fraunhofer IPMS representatives were on hand at Sensors Expo last week to highlight its transponder systems, which can work with sensor systems to gather information on objects or their environmental conditions. Such combinations of systems can be used to monitor goods, for example, particularly in the commercial and logistics sector. Miniaturized, autonomous measuring systems can be realized, as can complex implantable diagnostic systems in medical technology.
Work at the Fraunhofer Institute for Photonic Microsystems IPMS focuses on the use of RFID technology for microsystems. RFID technology allows small, energy self-sufficient systems to be developed for a variety of applications. These wireless systems can then work passively as measuring systems. The transponder platform developed at the Fraunhofer IPMS combines a RFID tag with sensors and a microcontroller. The Institute can offer suitable solutions for all frequency ranges from 125 kHz (LF) through to 900 MHz (UHF).
At Sensors Expo & Conference June 5-6 in Rosemont, IL, the Fraunhofer IPMS presented transponder systems with integrated pressure, moisture, and temperature sensors.
Intelligent Hip Prostheses
Fraunhofer representatives pointed out that thanks to the development of microsystems technology, we are now able to equip implants—such as an artificial hip joint—with measuring and monitoring functions. But the supply of energy inside the body remains a key problem. The use of transponder technology is therefore an ideal solution for long-term implants. The energy needed for the measurements is transmitted to the implant from the outside by means of magnetic coupling, without any wires. A platform was developed at the Fraunhofer IPMS on the basis of this technology that supplies the electronic circuitry in the implant with energy and at the same time can export the measured data.
In a press release, Hans-Jürgen Holland, deputy director of the wireless microsystems business unit, explained, “Our technology is based on a low-frequency transponder circuit. The chosen carrier frequency of 125 kHz guarantees that sufficient energy is supplied to the implant. The circuit contains not only the transponder components but also a freely programmable microcontroller with connections for digital and/or analog sensors and actuators.”
There are many possible applications. For example, this solution can be used for a continuous measurement of the temperature, pressure, acceleration, or pH value. Simultaneous signal-processing and analysis of the measured results in the implant is also possible.
Fraunhofer IPMS exhibited one such intelligent implant at the Sensors Expo using a hip prosthesis equipped with a sensor system to check whether it is still well anchored in the bone as an example.
Temperature Monitoring in Switchgear
But transponders are used in not just medical technology; miniaturized, autonomous measuring systems can also be realized with them in the technical field. One practical example of such an application is monitoring the temperature on busbars in switch cabinets. To this end, UHF RFID transponders from the Fraunhofer IPMS with temperature sensors are installed in the switch cabinets from the Luxemburg firm of KÖHL AG. This kind of measurement allows the wireless and battery-free monitoring of screw connections on the busbars. If these become loose, the electric transition resistance rises, which heats up the contact point and, in extreme cases, can lead to dangerous arcing. Thanks to the sensor transponders from the Fraunhofer IPMS, this kind of development can be monitored and maintenance measures initiated in due time.
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